Ben Youssef Madrasa
Formerly the largest Islamic college in Morocco, today this Madrasa is a historic site. Established in the 16th Century, this is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. The building formerly served as a site for Islamic religious education, and was responsible for educating many illustrious religious leaders and scholars.
The stucco walls are covered in intricate mosaics and everything is in perfect symmetry – an excellent example of native architecture and design. Although the building itself has only two floors, avid photographers can spend hours perfecting their portraits and architecture shots.
Marrakesh Medina
No visit to Morocco would be complete without a trip to one of their famous souks. The cobblestone lanes of Marrakesh’s old town are famed for their lively markets, communal baths, folk dancers, and street food vendors. The quartiers have plenty to offer photographers as well – from the historic high stone walls to the colourful interiors of the souks, there’s a plethora of photo-ops here.
Intrepid photographers elect to visit at night when the Media is lit up – navigation to the medina itself can be a little tricky due to the lack of streetlights, but once you get there, you’re sure to get some stunning pictures that are well worth the trek.
Agafay Desert
It wouldn’t be North Africa without a desert right? Popular with locals for a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities, this stunning landscape is a sight for sore eyes. The endless sand dunes are great for recreating your best Aladdin inspired photos.
When you’re done with the desert, head over to the Lalla Takerkoust, the artificial reserve that blooms with wildflowers in the spring framed by the Atlas Mountains. It is a refreshing change from the miles of sand, and a great place to recharge your batteries before heading back out into the sweltering heat.
Koutoubia Mosque
Named after the booksellers who used to crowd around the base of the tower, Koutoubia Mosque is considered the symbol of Marrakesh, and is the largest mosque in all of Morocco. The Giralda in Seville is even believed to have been inspired by this monument.
This is a fully-operational mosque, and holds daily prayers five times a day, which means that non-Muslims are not permitted to enter. However, tourists can still pose for pictures on the well-manicured grounds and outer walls. The sandstone backdrop and pristine blue skies make for the perfect colour blocked shot.
Menara Gardens
Established in the 12th Century, the Menara Garden is framed by the Atlas Mountains and the perfect place to whip out that wide-angle lens. Locals love this spot for its serene beauty, and tourists flock here for the photo-ops. While you’re there, take some pictures of the flora and fauna in the garden itself – they’re great subjects for macro shots.
Even casual Instagrammers will be right at home here – the garden’s beauty makes for the perfect backdrop for #OOTD snaps, and the stunning reflection of the garden’s spoils in water make for a great symmetrical shot.
